Why Volcanoes Erupt, and Other Wonders of Hashem’s World

Why Do Volcanoes Erupt?

Volcanoes are one of the more dramatic wonders of nature. But what actually causes them to erupt? Deep beneath the surface of the Earth is a layer of molten rock called magma. When there are cracks or weak spots in the Earth’s outer shell known as tectonic plates, that hot magma can break through and rise upward, bursting out as lava.

Most volcanoes are located at the borders where tectonic plates meet or pull apart. That’s why many active volcanoes are found around the Pacific Ocean. This natural phenomenon is just one more example of the incredible design Hashem placed in the world. Even something as wild and powerful as a volcanic eruption follows precise rules built into creation.

Who Invented the Mobile Phone?

Like many modern inventions, the mobile phone wasn't created by just one person, but by a team of brilliant engineers working together. The team was part of the Motorola company, and the person leading the group was Martin Cooper, so he’s often given credit as the "father of the mobile phone."

In fact, the first mobile phone call was made all the way back in 1973! Today, mobile phones are such a central part of our lives that it's hard to imagine a time before them. But like everything else, they began with one idea and grew into something much bigger, thanks to human creativity and Hashem’s gift of wisdom.

Where Are the World’s Shortest Escalators?

Most of us have used an escalator before usually in places where there are several floors to travel between, like shopping centers, airports, or train stations. They’re helpful because they make moving from one level to another so much easier, especially for older people or those carrying heavy bags.

But not all escalators are long. In fact, in Kawasaki, Japan, there’s an escalator so short it was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1989 as the shortest in the world. It measures only 82 centimeters long and that’s less than the length of most dining room tables! It might not save much time, but it certainly brings smiles to the people who see it.